Apps to help you focus

There comes a time when no matter how hard you try, you just cannot focus. If you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself sucked into a social media void of doom. Twitter, Tumblr, Facebook, Reddit, whatever your poison, it’s time to take control. Here are three apps that will help you block out distractions, refocus and get to work.

Self control – for when you have none.

This little desktop mac app helps to ensure a simple reality – when you block those sites, they stay blocked. SelfControl works by using a time based filter. Simply add the sites that are distracting you, select the amount of time you want them to be blocked and then go go go. Time ranges from 15 minutes to 1 day – and no, restarting your computer won’t stop the block. Once it’s on, it’s on.Available on: Mac
For a non mac alternative get LeechBlock for Firefox.

WriteorDie – Stop your mind wandering

Write or Die is a writing tool that will either reward your productivity or punish your laziness. The program works by setting options such as desired word count, time limit and the types of noises and stimuli you’ll experience when you don’t write fast enough. If you’re bad, you’ll get flashing red lights and startling sounds. But if you’re productive you’ll be rewarded with kittens purring and pictures of cute puppies. The write or die experience is not for the faint-hearted, but it will definitely keep your mind from wandering off.Available on: Online, Mac, PC, Linux

Concentrate – Automatic Work setup

This little beauty of an app combines numerous features to create a customised work environment. Concentrate helps you to create a work environment by selecting features that work for you. Add the files you want to open, sites you want to block, how long you want to work for and the kind of desktop background you like. Next time you need to work on the go, simply open and click concentrate – and all your work settings will be ready and waiting for you.